TACO CASSEROLE Recipe

This Taco Casserole is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that layers seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and soft tortillas. Topped with melted cheddar and garnished with guacamole, cilantro, and sour cream, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Quick, easy, and sure to please the whole family!
Key Ingredients:
Ground Beef: The savory foundation of the casserole, cooked to perfection and seasoned with taco spices.
Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices that delivers classic Mexican-inspired flavor.

RoTel Diced Tomatoes with Chiles: Adds a spicy, tangy kick that complements the richness of the beef.

Nacho Cheese Soup: Creamy, cheesy goodness that ties the casserole together.

Sour Cream: A tangy addition that adds creaminess to the filling and balances the bold spices.

Grated Cheddar: A golden, melty topping that’s the hallmark of any good casserole.

Soft Tortillas: Acts as the “pasta” of this casserole, creating hearty layers.

Guacamole, Cilantro, and Extra Sour Cream: Optional toppings that add freshness and a finishing touch.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even baking and perfectly melted cheese.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This step prevents sticking and makes serving and cleaning up easier.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
   Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula (about 7-10 minutes).
   Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being oily.
4. Season the Beef
   Return the drained beef to the skillet.
   Stir in a packet of taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water.
   Cook for 2 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Mix the Casserole Filling
   In a medium bowl, combine:
   1 can of Ro*Tel diced tomatoes with chiles (drained)
   1 can of nacho cheese soup
   1/2 cup of sour cream.
   Mix well and stir in the seasoned beef until evenly combined.
6. Assemble the Casserole
   Layer 3 tortillas in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping as needed.
   Spread 1/3 of the beef mixture evenly over the tortillas.
   Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a final layer of tortillas on top.
7. Add the Cheese
   Sprinkle 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer of tortillas. The cheese will melt into a gooey, golden topping.
8. Bake the Casserole
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned at the edges.

9. Serve and Garnish
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven.
   Slice and serve warm, garnished with:
   Chopped cilantro
   Guacamole
   Additional sour cream (optional).

Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful casserole!

Serving Suggestions:
This taco casserole is a star on its own, but you can elevate your meal with these side pairings:

Mexican Rice: A perfect side dish to round out the meal.
Black Beans or Refried Beans: Adds more protein and a traditional touch.
Corn Salad: A fresh, zesty accompaniment to balance the rich casserole.
Chips and Salsa: Keep the Mexican fiesta theme going!